Have you heard of the ‘Mirror Manager’? This is the person who, when faced with a request to make a decision, says “I’ll look into it for you”, and typically doesn’t make a decision. Being decisive is what leaders do. It’s what others look for in us.
The word ‘decide’ comes from the Latin, decisio, meaning to cut off. So when you make a decision, you are cutting off other options. It means that we can get on with things.
Here are some ways that you can become more decisive and therefore a better leader.
- Don’t be afraid to be wrong. If you find out you are wrong, then make the right decision and move on.
- Take more risks. If you are not prepared to take risks then you will definitely miss opportunities.
- Be inclusive. Get your key people together, discuss the options and make a call. People will respond to opportunity and the responsibility of being involved in the process.
- Empower others to make decisions. Encourage them to consider the alternatives, the pros and cons of each one and come to you with a recommendation.
- Ask yourself what is the worst thing that could happen. Then ask yourself how likely is that outcome. Chances are the worst that could happen is very unlikely.
Being bold and demonstrating courage will inspire others. In the case where it might have been the wrong call, you simply own up, be accountable for your actions and go again. This behaviour will draw people and their commitment towards you. It’s what leaders do.